# Isolation and Entrapment in The Magician

> Theme guide for The Magician by W. Somerset Maugham.

Margaret is physically and emotionally isolated at Skene, trapped in a marriage with a madman, while the characters' psychological isolation amplifies their vulnerability to supernatural forces.

## Where it surfaces

- [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_magician_se/chapters/ii): Susie's reflections on her own lonely life as a former schoolmistress and her unfulfilled desire for love suggest a sense of emotional entrapment despite her newfound freedom.
- [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_magician_se/chapters/iii): Haddo's presence drives away the other diners, isolating Margaret, Arthur, Susie, and Dr. Porhoët with him.
- [VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_magician_se/chapters/vi): Despite being surrounded by people, Haddo remains a stranger, isolated by his own mystique and the distrust of others.
- [IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_magician_se/chapters/ix): Margaret feels utterly alone, trapped by her own desires and Haddo's influence, unable to confide in Arthur or Susie.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_magician_se/themes/isolation_and_entrapment
- Themes index: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_magician_se/themes